NTSB reports probable cause of 2024 UP conductor fatality

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has determined that the probable cause a fatal Union Pacific Railroad train collision in 2024 was due to the conductor not alerting the engineer to stop the train before reaching a designated stopping point.

The NTSB also determined that UP sent the conductor, who died in the accident, into the field without performance-based verification that he could safely navigate the territory, according to the NTSB's final report on the accident, which occurred July 6, 2024, at UP’s Proviso Yard in Melrose Park, Illinois.

At the time of the accident, an eastbound train traveling along the south Melrose track out of Proviso Yard 4. At the same time, a second train was shoving west on the city lead track, which merges with the south Melrose track. The conductor of second train was positioned on the leading end of a tank car when it struck the right side of the eastbound train.

In response to the accident, UP issued a critical incident alert to reaffirm safety standards and regulations for job aids and shoving movement procedures. The alert emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, maintaining situational awareness of the current task and being aware of present conditions while performing tasks. In its investigation, NTSB concluded that UP was not providing job aids throughout its system. As part of the response, UP officials indicated they corrected the issue systemwide, and that all UP locations now have up-to-date job aids.

To read the NTSB's final report, click here.

Meanwhile, an NTSB team yesterday arrived on the scene of a July 5 CN train derailment near Glendora, Mississippi. Thirteen cars derailed and a tanker containing a hazardous material ruptured and caught fire, The Clarksdale Press Register reported. About 150 nearby residents were evacuated.